The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact an expert.